2. Contact Info

3. Dealer Selection

It’s not often that something so big comes from something so small. Well folks, those little Mini Coopers have been taking the United States by storm for several years and now they’re doing it in a great big way. On Monday, August 21st in Monterey, CA, thousands of Mini Cooper owners and enthusiasts will be embarking on what Mini hopes will go down in history as the biggest one-of-a-kind event ever. The event was conceived by the Mini Corporation and is appropriately called “MINI Takes the States (MTTS).” MTTS is a 15-day, 19-state, cross-country road trip that will stop in a new city every night, with close to 4000 registered participants — and many more of whom will show up at the events and scheduled stops along the way.

Why on Earth would a corporation that has already sold its product in such massive quantities go to such extremes? It’s a simple answer: the Mini Cooper has always capitalized on its “Fun” and “Wheee” factors, and very few who have ever stood within five feet of a Mini would dare to argue against such claims. So now it’s time to take it to a new level with the launch of a new Mini Cooper S with the John Cooper Works Kit (“Mini GP”). The first 45 limited-edition “Mini GPs” to arrive in the country will be delivered in Monterey and the remaining 35 will be delivered when the event concludes in New Jersey. This trek is meant to allow the Mini community to enjoy their country with a two-week journey of gigantic proportions at events such as the historic Monterey races on the kick-off weekend, a night at the House of Blues, a beach party, and a day at Kings Dominion. How could anyone resist such tempting enjoyment? I know I couldn’t.

Let me introduce myself; my name is Emily Martian a-k-a StoopidGirl to those who know me through my many Mini activities (that’s StoopidGirl as in one word like Superhero because I’m super, or at least that’s what my mom says). I’ve been a fan of the Mini Cooper ever since I first watched the British television show “Mr. Bean” as a child. Since then I’ve acquired a Cooper of my very own, painted it pink, and let it completely turn my world upside down. I’ve spent several years enjoying and taunting the Mini community with my odd sense of humor and obsessive love of photography. And just the other day I was asked “How would you like to be stuck in several Mini Coopers for two weeks with a whole bunch of the Fireballed! Team Racers, loads of Mini nuts, AND write about it for Motor Trend online?” Okay, maybe that wasn’t the exact question but can you imagine my excitement? As I said before, how could anyone resist? You betcha! Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Dear readers, I have come to the end of my introduction, please follow me on this wild ride called “Mini Takes the States.” I’ll post as often as possible and have loads of photographs to share. If you’ve got a Mini and couldn’t make it, or are just interested in sharing the fun, track me and live vicariously through my words on this cross-country jaunt. Who will I ride with next? How many cups of coffee can I take before I call for a pit stop? How cool is the new Mini GP? And what awesome roadside attractions are bigger than a Mini Cooper? See you on the road!

Day 1: The Kick-OffStart: Monterey, CAEnd: Santa Barbara, CA

Imagine perfect weather, thousands of people who don’t know each other, and whole lot of racing. That would be Monterey, California, over the weekend. The pre-MTTS kickoff was a hit, and the MINI Corporation far exceeded expectations. The barbeque island in the center of the historical Laguna Seca raceway was made private by MINI USA and dubbed “MINI Island.” When we arrived, it was crowded with the first of the MINI GPs ready for delivery to their new owners. Later in the afternoon, the huge barbeques were lit and loaded with some of the best only a fired grill can offer. It was a meat-lover’s paradise, plus there was everything from grilled squash and zucchini to the unidentified fruity pie-type desert that was so tasty it deserved a second round.

Bright and early at Pirate’s Cove, before any normal pirate would be awake–7:30 a.m., to be exact–the MTTS sendoff beach party began, complete with a rockin’ live band and the fire pits required at any beach party. There was an array of breakfast goodies, a roar of excitement for the long-awaited journey, and swag bags to please everyone. The time flew by, and soon the flock of MINIs was off to its new overnight destination in Santa Barbara.

Now down to business. The MINI GP has been well received, and the attention from non-MINI owners is building as the days go by. Here, with the official review, is one of the first to take delivery. Please welcome guest writer Todd Pearson from White Roof Radio.com.

Ask The Owner Who Has OneWe talk with Todd Pearson, one of the lucky owners who just took delivery of his new GPBy Todd PearsonPhoto by the Author

The Monterey GP delivery event started off Thursday night with a dinner and reception for the 32 GP owners and their guests. The poolside event was lovely and the weather in Monterey was a fabulous 65 degrees. Friday was delivery day, and the 32 owners and guests rode the bus to Laguna Seca racetrack for the presentation of the GPs. The cars were lined up on MINI Island near the lagoon at the track. For some five minutes, all we could do was ooh and aah at the new cars, which were locked while we had lunch. We heard remarks from Tom Purves, president BMW N.A., and Rich Steinberg and Jim McDowell of MINI USA. After lunch and the speeches, it was time for the key handover and driveaway. The whole experience seems a blur now, overshadowed by the joy of owning a new JCW GP, but everything was perfect.

We drove away on Friday afternoon for a few hours of motoring and photography along the beach. The GP was phenomenal in every way. Handling, power, and braking are brilliant. For a test of the car’s prowess, we were invited back to Laguna Seca on Saturday for a few parade laps in the new GPs. That was incredible, to say the least. Sure, we hit only about 60 at the fastest point, but the corkscrew at any speed is enough to get your racing blood flowing. After our laps, most of the GP owners hung around the track with hundreds of other MINI owners as we enjoyed the classic racing and looking over a variety of new and classic MINIs.

All in all, MINI USA did a fantastic job with the delivery event. For this owner, the experience was priceless.

Day 2: Barstow Pit-StopStart: Santa Barbara, CAEnd: Las Vegas, NV

After leaving Santa Barbara, our caravan of over 200 MINI Coopers headed north. We drove through Ojai, Santa Clarita, Palmdale, and Victorville, finally stopping in Barstow, California. The Barstow Pit-Stop was sponsored and hosted by Socal-MINI-Manics (SCMM.com) and gave everyone a chance to stretch his legs and have a nice, cold bottle of water. This was a long-awaited bathroom brake and a chance to grab lunch at the world busiest In-N-Out Burger restaurant. Registered participants in the MTTS event were given a coupon for lunch in their goody bags as part of the pit-stop. Once fed and rested, we jumped back on the highway to finish the long stretch to Las Vegas, Nevada, where more MINI activities were in store.

Day 2: Las Vegas, NV

We left the Barstow, California pit-stop late afternoon en route to the town with the most expensive power bill ever, good ol’ Las Vegas, Nevada. On our way, we took a lunch break in Primm, Nevada, where Buffalo Bill’s Casino Resort was offering free roller-coaster rides to us lovely MINI folk. I personally didn’t ride it, but I did hear some screams from high above when the roller-coaster cars flew by. You’d think MINI owners would have an easy time on such rides because, MINIs when driven right, are about the equivalent. Before jumping back on the road, we met up with the fantastic MINI USA video production crew who recorded the Fireballed! Team’s arrival into Las Vegas. We’d been given three promo MINI GPs to drive and drive them we did. Say it with me, folks, “Vegas, baby, Vegas!” It seems to have become a law that you can’t go to Las Vegas without saying the phrase at least once. Those words were heard probably every five minutes Tuesday evening.

With no time to spare and barely showered, we were rushed off to the House of Blues and were promptly kicked out after walking in the door. I’d like to claim we were ejected from the House of Blues due to our rowdy and excessive behavior, but it was because of our Car TV (www.cartv.com) camera crew following close behind; look for the episodes coming soon. We stashed the camera equipment and proceeded into the event where we were blessed with yummy munchies and several live bands. The crowd particularly enjoyed the Blues Brothers act. The dance floor took full swing; I hear some of MINI USA’s own crew was seen cutting a rug. It was a late night with many memorable people (whom I can’t remember at the moment), but I do recall one incredible character named Siddhartha from the Motoring Underground (www.motoringunderground.com) making a scene with everyone who came within a five-foot radius, he exhibits the true meaning and energy of being a MINI owner. He was one of the first to arrive at the party and last to leave, not bad for a silly, old coot.

Day 3: Start: Las Vegas, NVEnd: Flagstaff, AZ

After Las Vegas, we decided to highjack our three promo MINI GPs once again and cause some ruckus, we took a fun break at the Hoover Dam where many of MTTS’ participants were wandering around. We decided to take the historic Route 66 to our next destination, beautiful Flagstaff, Arizona. On our way, we met some interesting characters two of which were a couple of asses, quite literally.

We stopped in Hackberry where we saw all sorts of neat old rusty cars, cow skulls, and two very friendly donkeys. For some reason, Fireball Tim seamed to converse with them quite well, hmmm? So far, this has been one of our favorite stops. I was able to take some really cool photos, which makes me happy. It was something to step back in time 40 years or more when the highway was booming with folks like my father who rode motorcycles along the same stretch. I’m proud to have dug my feet in the soil and said hello.

We pressed on. Arrival in Flagstaff was great. We were met by people from the local high school who volunteered their ROTC Club’s services to scrub down our dirty cars. The turnout was amazing and I commend them for their valiant efforts. I don’t know how many MINIs were washed, but it was probably close to one hundred. All donations went to helping put on their full scale military ball. I know this year will be a good one!

Day 4: Start: Flagstaff, AZEnd: Albuquerque, NM

After a relaxing evening in Flagstaff at the Little American hotel, we were off again. Throughout our day, we’d run into packs of MINIs and, much like motorcycles, we’d all ride together for a while and then split off toward our own destinations.

We made a stop at Meteor City whose domelike structure and teepees were calling our names. Inside was a nifty kitsch gift shop where Fireball Tim made an incredible deal on pellet guns and, with permission of the owner, shot up the place, eek! I hear there’ll be a showdown later between the Fireballed! Team Racers.

We got a quick rundown of the area history and the origins of its name. Apparently, there’s a big hole in the ground where a meteor landed many years ago. I had no idea, who’d have thought a place called Meteor City would have anything to do with meteors?

Soon after, we met up with some of the pack for a commemorative Route 66 Polaroid photo provided by (who else?) MINI. With our gas tanks almost on empty, we rolled into the Sandia Raceway where approximately 100 MINIs were prepping for a photo. Lining up the cars was the hard part; racing around the track after was the easiest and also the most fun. A few miles down the road is Albuquerque, New Mexico, where our incredible accommodations awaited us. Once again it was a relaxing evening.

Day 5: Start: Albuquerque, NMEnd: Amarillo, TX

When my driving partner and I left Albuquerque, we decided to take the MTTS-suggested “Off the Beaten Path” route once again. This took us toward Santa Fe, New Mexico.

A few of the locals had made the “Why would you want to go that route?” comment. “There’s nothing there.” Those statements are like watching a child play with an empty bowl for hours. If you can’t see what’s in it, you’re too old. The first 20 minutes or so we began to wonder if the locals had been right, but the farther we drove the prettier the landscaping became. Some of the roads were so straight they looked like runways ready to launch us into the sky. Then there were hills and twisties, a motorist’s dream.

Taking this path really gave us time to think about a lot of things, one of which was how true the term “MINI takes the States” really is. When we took off that morning, it was just the two of us in one car, on occasion we would pass another MINI, honk or wave, and continue on our way. Then we’d meet up with more and ride in packs for a while or, if we stopped to “moo” at the cows and giggle, more would pass by. They’d always wave, and we’d wave back. It was crazy; everywhere we went there were MINIs. It was like being home with friends around every corner.

Between the countryside and the camaraderie, we decided our mission for the day was complete. We’d been told upon departure to “find America.” Who knew we’d find it delightfully placed among cows and packs of little British cars. For a while, we’d been lost, or so we thought. The funny part was I’d just read a bumper sticker stating “Not all who wander are lost,” so we kept driving. It wasn’t until about an hour later we realized we were on the right path. I highly recommend taking the road less traveled.

In Amarillo, we attended a planned outdoor movie at the spectacular Palo Duro Canyon State Park’s amphitheater sponsored by Giant magazine. Free drinks, candy, swag bags, and popcorn were given to all guests. The popcorn came in handy when the hosts experienced technical issues. I did learn to always check the wind before an attempt at catching popcorn with my mouth or it’ll end up in completely the wrong location. Luckily, this was a rowdy crowd; I mean that in the best possible way. It was fun just to whistle and holler when the attempts were made to correct the issues. Unfortunately the movie ended up being canceled, but it was tons of fun nonetheless. Everyone was treated to a natural light show in the sky for the ride home, and we heard some deer and other various creatures were spotted in the beautiful park as well.

Day 6: Start: Amarillo, TXEnd: Dallas, TX

Every time I think I’m not going to have anything to write about, something jumps out at me. The ride between Amarillo and Dallas, Texas, was pretty uneventful. It was a nice drive, but nothing special seemed to happen. Then we noticed our race trailer was about to blow a tire. It had lost one the day before, resulting in the use and replacement of our spare. We went ahead and used the new spare to get it out of the way. No sooner did we pull back on to the highway, and another tire went. No big deal, we thought, it can’t be that hard to find another tire, we can limp into Dallas. Some 30 minutes later and still a pretty good distance from our destination, another tire blew. The trailer has six tires altogether, so we slowly made our way into the city on four. Sunburned and exhausted, we pulled up to our hotel, fingers crossed that it would be decent. Our expectations were far surpassed when we walked into the W Hotel (www.whotel.com).

Our accommodations have been quite nice this whole trip, but we in no way expected this. If it’s possible to capture a fresh, minimalist but over-the-top, styling I don’t know. But the W definitely does. There are glowing walls that change color as you stand there, bellhops more than willing to help you out, and hip music playing in all the elevators. It’s so phenomenal, I took great risk to take photos. Maybe it was my earning the nickname StoopidGirl again or true photojournalism, but I lit my head on fire just for a great photo. Yes, you read correctly: I lit my head on fire. Too bad I don’t have a photo of the glorious event, but I know I made a spectacle when I leaned over to take the shot, inadvertently sticking my hair over a candle. As I was snapping away, I heard a sound like that of a burning wick on a stick of dynamite. Before I knew what happened, I was a human torch. I lost a good chunk of hair, but luckily I used to be a hairdresser so fixing it will be easy. I honestly look like I had a haircut. Go me!

Day 7: Start: Dallas, TXEnd: Memphis, TN

Next stop: Memphis, Tennessee. Too-toot, all aboard. It’s time to hop on the soul train. Memphis is an interesting city, very old with an amazing history. We had good weather and a hotel that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. I truly expected Elvis or Johnny Cash to come walking around the corner at any minute. Andrew Cutler from MINI USA was our host for the evening and took us for a walk down to Beale Street. As we strolled, we could hear the cicadas making their racket in the trees, but the town was dead, nobody in sight.

Wow, we thought, Memphis is a really quiet city late on a Sunday afternoon. Then we turned a corner where bright lights glowed and loads of people were having a blast. We walked around for a bit absorbing all the city had to offer–neon signs shaped like guitars, storefronts full of Elvis memorabilia, and buildings with no roofs, just walls held up by support beams revealing neat little bars inside. Our group settled on a corner restaurant serving authentic Southern food. Ribs seemed the meal of choice; they were devoured quickly by us hungry travelers. Bellies full and feet sore, we meandered back to our hotel rooms to prepare for the next day’s travels.

Day 8: Start: Memphis, TNEnd: Nashville, TN

In Nashville, Tennessee, we had a lunch break before the evening’s event. Our meal was quick, and we then pulled in to the local park where Spin magazine was sponsoring an outdoor concert. It was hot and humid but, as the sun set, the crowd grew, food was grilled, and music played while the hours passed. The atmosphere was relaxed with people lying on the grass or playing with their children and pets. As always, we met many interesting characters. A happy motorcycle driver inquired about the event and all the MINI Coopers parked in the area, which just goes to show it doesn’t matter who you are or what you drive to be able to enjoy a good time.

The following morning, we headed back to the park for our departure. While everyone was talking and drinking coffee, I found myself playing Alice and wandering down the rabbit hole. I saw a squirrel and my ADD kicked into overdrive. Camera in hand, I followed the little fellow while shooting and not paying attention to my whereabouts, then I saw another squirrel, and another. Then I saw the local squirrel lady. I happily sat next to her and watched about 50 or so squirrels running around and nibbling on their treats. Every once in a while, a chipmunk would run in, snag a few peanuts of his own, shoving as many as possible into his mouth and dashing off to hide them away. To see such a cute spectacle surrounded by trees and greenery was great. We’ve definitely begun our eastern ascent.

Day 9: Start: Nashville, TNEnd: St Louis, MO

Always unaware of what to expect next, we departed for St. Louis, Missouri. On our way, we learned Metropolis was on the map. I do mean Metropolis; you know, where Superman hails from. Yep, MTTS invaded the sleepy little town. The town was a lot different from what any of us expected. Metropolis is more like Mayberry then what we know of it from the comics. MINI USA came through for the participants–as they have many times on this trip–by providing free admission to the Superman museum, where some unbelievable and incredible history is preserved for future generations.

Our “Man of Steel” paraphernalia acquired, we hopped into our little cars and took off to St. Louis for a tailgate party in support of the Cardinals versus the Marlins Baseball game. I’m not exactly sure who won, but what a cool crowd. St. Louis MINI owners sure know how to represent their city. The free ice-cream didn’t hurt either. I’ve never been a sports fan, but I can say the skybox seats are very cool and the light sprinkles were a nice change of pace from the hot, humid days we’d been experiencing. About 100 lucky participants had been given the tickets by the ever so generous MINI USA corporation, the rooms were filled, and traditional beer and snacks were consumed.

For most, the hotel was right across the street. The following morning was a photo opportunity in front of the famous arch. As we pulled into the area with our little group, we realized this was no small ordeal. Best guess is there were 150-plus MINIs ready for their glamour shot. An airplane carrying the lucky photographer made a few passes, and then we were free once again.

This time, unlike most mornings, we all took off at the same time, which allowed for some cool video and photos. I can only imagine what other drivers must think. It’s not often 150 MINI Coopers fly by when you’re driving to work. Next stop, Indiana!

Day 10: Start: St Louis, MOEnd: Indianapolis, IN

Upon arrival in Indiana we were promptly whisked away to the Indianapolis Speedway (AKA the Brickyard) where there was the biggest crowd yet. I had thought St. Louis was a sea of MINIs, but I was way off, there had to have been at least 300 MINIs here. Everyone was laughing, having a good time, and exchanging business cards, as there were many clubs and vendors. MINI owners don’t just drive their cars — they become a part of it. Along this journey I’ve rarely met a person who didn’t belong to a local chapter or have a website devoted to something MINI. The energy was rising as the time neared to be able to drive a lap around one of the most famous raceways there is. Unfortunately, due to the rules, I was not allowed to take any photos for publication so you will have to use your imagination. When the lap began, MINIs were sent onto the track in sets of two.

Everyone had huge grins on their faces; after all it’s not every day something of this magnitude happens. It’s comparable to meeting that supermodel or hunk you were crushing on while growing up — and not only do you get to shake their hand, but you get to give them a big squishy hug. When our portion of the group made it back around to the starting point, there were MINIs still filing onto the track! The turnout was unbelievable. Not ready to throw in the towel and go back to the hotel, a good portion of the crowd met in a parking lot across the street to once again share tales from the road and swap goodies. One poor fellow’s Hot Orange Convertible was sideswiped on the way to the track. Rather than let it ruin his day, he provided a magic marker and — in true MINI fashion — let everyone sign the mangled door. Some people gave their condolences and others made little jokes like “Sweet mod! How much down force?” Our fingers are crossed that the car’s boo boo will get fixed and no more will happen on this trip. As for the door, it will live on. Plans are to hang it on a wall some day: now that’s what I call one heck of a souvenir.

Poor Hot Orange MINI got a boo boo, luckily everyone is OK.

Day 11: Start: Indianapolis, INEnd: Charleston, WV

Mother Nature struck. Rain came down in Charleston, West Virginia, canceling plans that were made for a drive-in movie and barbeque. The busy bees from MINI USA swept in and took control. It’s really impressive how things have been handled for this trip. If something needs fixing or changing, the team has been around to help. Sometimes it’s something as little as giving out an extra Atlas when someone is in need or, in this case, passing out tickets to the movie theatre when it rains.

I’d like to take this moment to personally thank all those involved with the organization of this trip. Specifically, Andrew Cutler who has done a magnificent job at staying cool under pressure and even making us laugh a time or two with his crazy announcer voice. I even recall K.P. and another organizer singing a little tune on their loudspeaker to get the crowd hopping. It’s good to know that even though this is a corporately sponsored event, the “corporation” is also having fun; it really says a lot. On that note, the rain didn’t get anyone down. Tickets to see “Talladega Nights” were passed out and approximately one hundred MINIs showed up to enjoy the humor of the NASCAR-based race film. The reviews were good, as Will Ferrell’s particular brand of humor seemed to fit the crowd. It was a relaxing evening and well needed for an event such as this, which requires so much energy.

Day 12: Start: Charleston, WVEnd: Charlottesville, VA

The rain continued, interfering with visibility on the roads. I half expected to curl up in my hotel room for the evening and have little to no update. Then the words “local Brew pub” was mentioned. We debated motoring to the local hotspot but decided, “Why let a little rain stop us?” and we dashed bravely into the night. The South Street bar was mixed with locals and MTTS participants having a good time. The hour-long wait for seating seemed to fly by. My phone rang and I heard an unfamiliar voice on the other end: It was Samantha, a familiar character with the online MINI community who goes by the screen name of “The Short Bus.” A while later she showed up and I knew exactly why, between my amazonish height and her diminutive vertical stature it was a good laugh. She had almost forgotten about the event and it was a last-minute decision to come out. We were all glad she did, as it was a great time.

Day 13: Start: Charlottesville, VAEnd: Washington, DC

The long journey is coming to an end. Those of us who went the whole way are starting to slow down, though the trip is going full force, the crowds keep getting bigger, and the enthusiasm never wanes. Our first stop on the way to Washington, D.C. was Kings Dominion, where all the MINI owners were treated to park tickets just so we could ride “The Italian Job Stunt Track” roller coaster. Everyone made a bee-line for the ride; the line was short and people who normally wouldn’t go on a roller coaster made the exception. It was like a law: you couldn’t make it this far without going on it, and it was a blast. Immediately riders were shot into an upwards corkscrew, shot at by machineguns on a prop helicopter, and rocketed out of a dark tunnel. Honestly it was the first roller coaster that didn’t make me want to toss up my lunch.

Speaking of said lunch, after the midday meal break, we rolled into Washington, D.C., escorted by Joe and John, two members of the local DC Metro MINI club. I don’t think we’ve crossed the paths of two more helpful and generous people than these two. They took a bunch of us for a drive around the city and some site seeing. MTTS was also greeted by the club as a welcome committee, many of whom went to the baseball game afterwards. D.C. is one of those places; many of us would have liked to have had more time to explore and see all the museums.

Day 14: Start: Washington, DCEnd: Jersey City, NJ

Every state has a story and every road has a tale. My road is coming to an end but the entertainment just keeps coming. When we first pulled into Jersey City, my initial reaction was, “Blech, too much traffic and commotion. Who would want to live here?” Then we turned a corner and saw the New York skyline across the waterway. The sun was setting and the city lights were gradually lighting up the night: it was an amazing sight. I could have stared at it for hours but I had a job to do. This was the location for the MTTS farewell party, we couldn’t have asked for more. There was live music, plenty of beer, break dancers, jugglers, and (we must not forget) free massages from the Maxim Magazine girls. What a hoot!

I ran into some friends I’ve made at other MINI events and chatted it up for a while. It always makes me giggle when I find familiar faces in unfamiliar places. This world is so huge, yet from time to time I travel thousands of miles away from home only to have someone I know run up to me and give me a hug. There aren’t many communities out there like the MINI one. The farewell party was more like a welcome party to me as it was nothing like the sad hearts more familiar at airports when people say goodbye. Yes, it was sad to know all of this was coming to an end; but it was joyous to see old friends, make new ones and have tales to tell to generations to come.

Day 15: Start: Jersey City, NJEnd: Lakeville, CT

My feet are sore, it’s a blur as to what city I’m in, and I can’t remember the last time I had a full night’s sleep. Lakeville…yes, yes…Lakeville, Connecticut, that’s where I am. It’s the final day of MTTS and I’m staring at a sight I may never see again. More than 1300 MINIs have taken over the Rolex historic races. I don’t think there is a camera lens big enough to capture this. Between everyone’s exhaustion and excitement, it’s like a dream. But wait…it gets better.

I probably should have read the program before I decided to make a pit stop. As I’m running from the port-a-potty I hear someone hollering “Hurry up! Get in!” and I fling myself back into the car (not so gracefully, I must add). We’re off! Where to, now? This is the end of the road right? Oh noooo it’s not! I found myself hanging out of the car window, snapping pictures of tons of MINIs and thousands of people as we drove around the historic racetrack. Wow, it’s not everyday this kind of thing happens. People were waving and cheering as we all drove flew by. After a few fun laps, we made our way to the MTTS tent where an incredible crowd was assembled. Food was supplied, MTTS travel books were stamped with the final destination, and the excitement continued.

Well folks, here we are at the end of our 15-day journey. I’m about to step onto my airplane and say goodbye to the East coast. Other trevelers will climb back into their MINIs to enjoy another cross-country trip to get back to their original location.

For those of you who made it to this once-in-a-lifetime trek, it was great meeting you, my fingers are crossed we can do it again. For those of you who couldn’t make it, I hope you enjoyed reading along, we’re always happy to have you here in spirit. So long folks, may all your travels be happy ones, may you motor down the roads less traveled, and may you see things in a different light (just be careful not to set your head on fire — that’s my job).

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